A system and method of controlling agriculture equipment which combines geographical coordinates, machine settings, machine position, path plans, user input, and equipment parameters to generate executable commands based of a variety of different in-field agricultural operation objectives for a vehicle equipped with an automatic or electronically controlled locomotion systems capable of reading and executing the commands.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the multiple communications networks include one or more of Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, EnOcean, synapse network appliance protocol (SNAP), radio, cellular or satellite based networks.
This invention relates to a system for managing communications across multiple heterogeneous networks in an Internet of Things (IoT) environment. The problem addressed is the complexity of integrating diverse communication protocols and standards used by different IoT devices, which often leads to interoperability issues and inefficient data transfer. The system provides a unified framework to facilitate seamless communication between devices operating on different network protocols, ensuring reliable and efficient data exchange. The system includes a central controller that interfaces with multiple communication networks, such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, EnOcean, Synapse Network Appliance Protocol (SNAP), radio, cellular, or satellite-based networks. The controller is configured to translate and route data between these networks, allowing devices on different protocols to communicate as if they were on the same network. This eliminates the need for each device to support multiple protocols, reducing hardware and software complexity. The system also includes a protocol adaptation layer that dynamically converts data formats and communication methods between the different networks, ensuring compatibility and minimizing latency. Additionally, the system may prioritize data traffic based on network conditions, device requirements, or user preferences, optimizing performance and resource utilization. The invention enables scalable and flexible IoT deployments by simplifying network integration and improving interoperability across diverse devices and applications.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the multiple communications networks include one or more mesh type networks.
A system is designed to manage communications across multiple networks, including mesh-type networks, to improve reliability and efficiency in data transmission. Mesh networks are decentralized, where each node can relay data, enhancing robustness in environments with unstable or intermittent connectivity. The system integrates these mesh networks with other types of networks to ensure seamless data flow, even when parts of the network are disrupted. It dynamically routes data through the most efficient paths, selecting between mesh and non-mesh networks based on real-time conditions such as signal strength, latency, and network congestion. This adaptability is particularly useful in scenarios like disaster recovery, remote sensing, or IoT deployments where traditional network infrastructure may be unreliable. The system also includes mechanisms to prioritize critical data, ensuring that high-priority transmissions are routed first. By leveraging mesh networks, the system provides redundancy and fault tolerance, reducing the risk of data loss or communication failures. The overall goal is to create a resilient communication framework that can operate effectively in diverse and challenging network environments.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein communication networks, including the first and second communication networks, of multiple communications networks include different operating frequencies or frequency ranges.
The invention relates to a communication system designed to manage data transmission across multiple communication networks with varying operating frequencies or frequency ranges. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently routing data between networks that operate on different frequencies, ensuring seamless and reliable communication. The system includes at least two communication networks, each with distinct frequency characteristics, and a controller that dynamically selects the optimal network for data transmission based on factors such as signal strength, network congestion, and frequency compatibility. The controller monitors network conditions in real-time and adjusts routing paths to maintain uninterrupted connectivity. Additionally, the system may incorporate frequency conversion modules to facilitate data transfer between networks operating on incompatible frequencies, ensuring compatibility and minimizing latency. The invention is particularly useful in environments where multiple networks with different frequency ranges coexist, such as in wireless communication systems, IoT deployments, or hybrid network infrastructures. By dynamically adapting to frequency variations, the system enhances communication efficiency and reliability across diverse network environments.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the communications module is configured to directly communicate with the one or more agricultural vehicles with the multiple communication networks.
The system relates to agricultural vehicle communication and management, addressing the challenge of coordinating multiple agricultural vehicles across different communication networks. The system includes a central control unit that manages operations of one or more agricultural vehicles, such as tractors, harvesters, or drones, to optimize tasks like planting, harvesting, or monitoring. A key component is a communications module that enables direct, multi-network communication with the vehicles. This module supports simultaneous or sequential connections to various networks, such as cellular, satellite, Wi-Fi, or proprietary agricultural networks, ensuring reliable data exchange even in remote or signal-limited environments. The system may also include sensors, data processing units, and user interfaces to monitor vehicle status, adjust operations in real-time, and collect field data. By integrating multiple communication protocols, the system enhances coordination between vehicles, reduces downtime, and improves efficiency in large-scale farming operations. The direct communication capability ensures seamless data flow for tasks like fleet management, precision agriculture, and automated workflows.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the communications module of the at least one agricultural vehicle is configured to communicate with the one or more agricultural vehicles with one or more mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers, modems associated with one or more of the first or second communication networks.
This invention relates to agricultural vehicle communication systems designed to enhance connectivity and data exchange in farming operations. The system addresses the challenge of reliable communication between agricultural vehicles and other devices in environments where traditional networks may be unreliable or unavailable. The system includes at least one agricultural vehicle equipped with a communications module that facilitates communication with other agricultural vehicles and external devices. The communications module supports multiple communication protocols and networks, including mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers, and modems, to ensure robust and flexible connectivity. These components enable the system to establish and maintain communication links across different network types, such as cellular, Wi-Fi, or satellite networks, depending on availability and signal strength. The system dynamically selects the most efficient communication path to transmit data, such as vehicle status, sensor readings, or operational commands, ensuring continuous and reliable data flow. This improves coordination between vehicles, optimizes farming operations, and enhances decision-making by providing real-time data access. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale farming where multiple vehicles operate simultaneously, requiring seamless communication to improve efficiency and productivity.
9. The system of claim 1 comprising the at least one agricultural vehicle and the one or more agricultural vehicles.
The system involves a network of agricultural vehicles designed to optimize field operations by coordinating tasks between a primary agricultural vehicle and one or more secondary agricultural vehicles. The primary vehicle is equipped with sensors and processing capabilities to monitor field conditions, such as soil moisture, crop health, and terrain data. It generates task assignments based on this data, distributing work among the secondary vehicles to maximize efficiency. The secondary vehicles receive these assignments and execute tasks such as planting, harvesting, or applying fertilizers, while continuously communicating with the primary vehicle to update progress and adjust operations in real time. The system ensures that all vehicles operate in a synchronized manner, reducing redundancy and improving overall productivity. This approach addresses the challenge of managing large agricultural fields efficiently by leveraging automated coordination between multiple vehicles, minimizing human intervention and optimizing resource use. The system may also integrate with external data sources, such as weather forecasts or satellite imagery, to further refine task allocation and adapt to changing conditions. The primary vehicle acts as a central hub, processing data from all connected vehicles and external sources to dynamically adjust workflows, ensuring that field operations are completed in the most efficient manner possible.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the executive controller unit includes a vehicle telematics unit.
A system for vehicle monitoring and control includes an executive controller unit that integrates a vehicle telematics unit. The executive controller unit is designed to manage and coordinate various vehicle functions, such as diagnostics, communication, and data logging. The vehicle telematics unit within the executive controller unit enables real-time tracking, remote diagnostics, and communication with external systems. This integration allows for centralized management of vehicle operations, improving efficiency and enabling advanced features like remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and fleet management. The system enhances vehicle performance and safety by providing comprehensive data collection and analysis capabilities. The telematics unit facilitates wireless communication with external networks, enabling features such as GPS tracking, emergency alerts, and software updates. This integration streamlines vehicle management and supports automated decision-making processes. The system is particularly useful in commercial and fleet applications where real-time monitoring and remote control are critical. By combining the executive controller unit with the telematics unit, the system provides a unified platform for managing vehicle operations, reducing downtime, and optimizing performance.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the remote server is independent from the executive controller unit.
A system for managing industrial processes includes a remote server and an executive controller unit. The remote server is designed to handle high-level process management tasks, such as data analysis, optimization, and decision-making, while the executive controller unit operates independently to execute real-time control functions. The remote server and the executive controller unit communicate to ensure coordinated operation, but the remote server is not dependent on the executive controller unit for its functionality. This separation allows the remote server to perform complex computations and long-term planning without being constrained by the real-time demands of the executive controller unit. The executive controller unit, in turn, can execute control commands with minimal latency, ensuring stable and responsive process operation. The system is particularly useful in industrial environments where real-time control and high-level decision-making must coexist without mutual interference. The remote server may also interface with additional systems, such as user interfaces or external databases, to provide enhanced monitoring and management capabilities. The executive controller unit may include local processing capabilities to handle immediate control tasks, reducing reliance on the remote server for time-sensitive operations. This architecture improves system reliability and scalability by distributing computational loads and reducing single points of failure.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein in the complete network configuration the communications module is configured to communicate with the remote applications server with one or more of the first or second communications networks.
A system for managing network communications in a distributed computing environment addresses the challenge of maintaining reliable connectivity between devices and remote servers across multiple network types. The system includes a communications module that dynamically selects and utilizes one or more available networks, such as cellular and Wi-Fi, to ensure continuous data transmission. This module monitors network conditions, prioritizes connections based on performance metrics, and seamlessly switches between networks to optimize reliability and efficiency. The system also integrates with a remote applications server, enabling secure and persistent data exchange. In a complete network configuration, the communications module is designed to interact with the remote server using either or both of the available networks, ensuring redundancy and uninterrupted service. This approach enhances operational resilience, particularly in environments where network availability or quality may fluctuate. The system may also include additional components, such as a local data processing unit that preprocesses data before transmission, further improving efficiency and reducing latency. The overall solution is particularly useful in applications requiring robust, multi-network connectivity, such as IoT devices, remote monitoring systems, or mobile applications.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein the vehicle controller is configured to arrest autonomous operation of the at least one agricultural vehicle if another communications module of another executive controller previously included in the first or second communications networks is unavailable on the first and second communications networks.
The system involves autonomous agricultural vehicles operating within a networked environment, where multiple vehicles and controllers communicate to coordinate tasks. A key challenge is ensuring reliable operation when communication failures occur, which could disrupt coordinated activities like planting, harvesting, or field monitoring. The system includes a vehicle controller that monitors the availability of other executive controllers within the network. If a previously connected executive controller becomes unavailable on either of the two communications networks (e.g., due to a failure or disconnection), the vehicle controller automatically halts autonomous operation of the affected vehicle. This prevents unsafe or uncoordinated actions, such as overlapping work areas or collisions, by enforcing a fail-safe mechanism. The system ensures that autonomous operations only proceed when all necessary controllers are actively communicating, maintaining operational integrity and safety in agricultural automation. The solution is particularly relevant for large-scale farming operations where multiple autonomous vehicles must work in sync.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein autonomously operating the multiple agricultural vehicles includes autonomously operating the multiple agricultural vehicles in a second partial network configuration including communicating messages between the multiple agricultural vehicles with one of the first or second communications networks if the other of the second or first communications networks is unavailable.
This invention relates to autonomous agricultural vehicle operations, specifically addressing communication reliability in multi-vehicle systems. The problem solved is ensuring continuous coordination among autonomous agricultural vehicles when primary communication networks fail. The system involves multiple autonomous agricultural vehicles operating in a networked configuration, where vehicles communicate via at least two distinct networks—a first and a second communications network. If one network becomes unavailable, the vehicles automatically switch to the other network to maintain communication. This redundancy ensures uninterrupted coordination, such as task allocation, obstacle avoidance, and data sharing, even if one network experiences disruptions. The vehicles may also adjust their network configurations dynamically based on real-time conditions, such as signal strength or network congestion. The invention improves operational efficiency and safety by preventing communication breakdowns that could lead to inefficiencies or accidents in agricultural tasks like planting, harvesting, or field monitoring. The solution is particularly useful in large-scale farming operations where multiple autonomous vehicles must work together seamlessly.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein autonomously operating the multiple agricultural vehicles in the partial network configuration includes autonomously operating the multiple agricultural vehicles if the remote server application is unavailable.
This invention relates to autonomous agricultural vehicle systems designed to maintain operational continuity during communication disruptions. The problem addressed is ensuring that multiple agricultural vehicles can continue functioning autonomously when a central remote server application becomes unavailable, preventing work stoppages in critical farming operations. The system includes a network of agricultural vehicles equipped with onboard computing systems capable of autonomous operation. These vehicles communicate with a remote server application for centralized coordination, but the system is designed to switch to a partial network configuration when the server is unavailable. In this mode, the vehicles operate autonomously based on preloaded instructions or local decision-making algorithms, allowing them to continue tasks such as planting, harvesting, or soil monitoring without relying on external control. The partial network configuration enables vehicles to share data and coordinate actions locally, ensuring efficient task distribution even without server connectivity. This redundancy improves reliability in remote or low-connectivity farming environments, where server outages could otherwise disrupt operations. The system prioritizes tasks based on predefined rules, such as completing high-priority fields first or minimizing fuel consumption, to optimize performance during autonomous operation. The invention ensures that agricultural work continues seamlessly, reducing downtime and improving productivity in variable network conditions.
17. The method of claim 14, wherein interconnecting the multiple agricultural vehicles includes interconnecting communication modules with the first and second communication networks, the communication modules associated with respective agricultural vehicles of the multiple agricultural vehicles.
This invention relates to a system for coordinating multiple agricultural vehicles during field operations. The problem addressed is the lack of efficient communication and coordination between vehicles in large-scale farming, leading to inefficiencies in tasks like planting, harvesting, or soil treatment. The solution involves a networked system where agricultural vehicles are interconnected via communication modules linked to first and second communication networks. These modules enable real-time data exchange between vehicles, allowing them to synchronize operations, avoid collisions, and optimize workflow. The first communication network may be a high-bandwidth, short-range network for direct vehicle-to-vehicle communication, while the second network could be a long-range system for broader coordination. The communication modules are assigned to individual vehicles, ensuring each can transmit and receive operational data, such as position, speed, and task status. This setup improves operational efficiency by reducing downtime and enhancing precision in fieldwork. The system may also integrate with external data sources, such as weather or soil sensors, to further refine vehicle coordination. The overall goal is to streamline agricultural operations by enabling seamless communication and collaboration between multiple vehicles in the field.
18. The method of claim 14, wherein communicating messages between multiple agricultural vehicles in the complete and partial network configurations includes directly communicating messages between the agricultural vehicles of the multiple agricultural vehicles with one or more of the first or second communication networks.
This invention relates to communication systems for agricultural vehicles operating in both complete and partial network configurations. The problem addressed is the need for reliable message exchange between multiple agricultural vehicles, especially when network connectivity is intermittent or incomplete. The solution involves a method for communicating messages between the vehicles using one or more communication networks, ensuring robust data transfer even in partial network conditions. The method includes establishing communication links between the vehicles using at least two distinct communication networks, such as a primary network and a secondary network. These networks may operate on different protocols or frequencies to enhance redundancy. When the primary network is unavailable or degraded, the system automatically switches to the secondary network to maintain connectivity. The method also supports direct communication between vehicles, bypassing intermediate nodes when necessary, to ensure timely message delivery. The system dynamically adjusts communication paths based on network conditions, vehicle proximity, and message priority. For example, critical operational data may be prioritized over less urgent information. The method also includes error detection and retransmission mechanisms to handle packet loss or corruption. By leveraging multiple communication channels and adaptive routing, the system ensures continuous and reliable message exchange among agricultural vehicles, improving coordination and efficiency in farming operations.
19. The method of claim 14, wherein communicating messages between multiple agricultural vehicles in the complete and partial network configurations includes communicating messages between a first agricultural vehicle and a second agricultural vehicle with one or more mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers or modems associated with one or more of the first or second communication networks.
This invention relates to communication systems for agricultural vehicles operating in both complete and partial network configurations. The problem addressed is the need for reliable message exchange between multiple agricultural vehicles, especially when network connectivity is intermittent or incomplete. The solution involves using mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers, or modems to facilitate communication between vehicles. These components can be part of one or more communication networks associated with the vehicles. The system ensures that messages are transmitted even when direct connections are unavailable, leveraging intermediate devices to relay information. This approach improves coordination and efficiency in agricultural operations by maintaining communication links despite partial network failures or disruptions. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale farming where multiple vehicles must work together in dynamic environments. The use of mesh networks and other networking hardware allows for flexible and resilient communication, ensuring that critical data is exchanged even under challenging conditions.
21. The method of claim 14, wherein interconnecting the multiple agricultural vehicles with multiple communication networks includes interconnecting two or more agricultural vehicles.
Agricultural operations often require coordination between multiple vehicles to improve efficiency, reduce labor, and enhance precision. However, integrating these vehicles across different communication networks presents challenges in ensuring seamless data exchange and synchronization. This invention addresses these issues by enabling multiple agricultural vehicles to interconnect through multiple communication networks, allowing them to share data, coordinate tasks, and operate as a unified system. The method involves establishing communication links between two or more agricultural vehicles, such as tractors, harvesters, or drones, using different network types, including wireless, cellular, or satellite networks. The system dynamically selects the most reliable communication path based on signal strength, latency, and data priority, ensuring continuous and efficient operation. Additionally, the method may include error detection and correction mechanisms to maintain data integrity across networks. By interconnecting vehicles in this way, the system improves operational efficiency, reduces downtime, and enhances overall productivity in agricultural tasks. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale farming operations where multiple vehicles must work together to complete tasks like planting, harvesting, or soil monitoring.
22. The method of claim 14 comprising arresting autonomous operation of the multiple agricultural vehicles if one vehicle of the multiple agricultural vehicles previously interconnected in the first or second communications networks is unavailable on the first and second communications networks.
This invention relates to autonomous agricultural vehicle systems and addresses the challenge of maintaining coordinated operation when network connectivity is disrupted. The system involves multiple autonomous agricultural vehicles interconnected via first and second communications networks, such as a primary network and a backup network. The vehicles perform coordinated tasks like planting, harvesting, or field monitoring, requiring continuous communication to avoid conflicts or inefficiencies. The method includes monitoring the availability of each vehicle on both networks. If any vehicle becomes unavailable on either network, the system automatically arrests or halts the autonomous operation of all interconnected vehicles. This ensures safety and prevents uncoordinated actions that could lead to equipment damage, crop loss, or operational inefficiencies. The arrest mechanism may involve stopping vehicle movement, pausing task execution, or transitioning to a safe standby mode until connectivity is restored or the issue is resolved. The system may also include diagnostic features to identify the cause of the disconnection, such as network failures, vehicle malfunctions, or environmental interference. By enforcing this fail-safe measure, the invention enhances reliability in autonomous agricultural operations, particularly in large-scale farming where precise coordination is critical.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the intervening network components include one or more of mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers or modems associated with one or more of the first or second communication networks.
This invention relates to communication systems, specifically methods for managing data transmission between devices connected to different communication networks. The problem addressed is the complexity and inefficiency of routing data through multiple intervening network components, such as mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers, or modems, which can introduce latency, packet loss, or compatibility issues. The method involves transmitting data from a first device on a first communication network to a second device on a second communication network. The data traverses one or more intervening network components, which may include mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers, or modems. These components facilitate the transfer of data between the networks, ensuring compatibility and efficient routing. The method optimizes the transmission by selecting the most efficient path through these components, reducing latency and improving reliability. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where devices are connected to heterogeneous networks, such as combining wired and wireless infrastructures, or integrating different protocols. By dynamically managing the network components, the method ensures seamless and efficient data transfer across diverse network environments.
25. The system of claim 23, wherein the intervening network components include the communications modules of each executive controller unit of the plurality, of executive controller units.
A system for managing communications in a distributed control environment involves multiple executive controller units, each equipped with communications modules, that interact with intervening network components. The system addresses the challenge of ensuring reliable and efficient data exchange between distributed control units in industrial or automation systems, where network reliability and latency can impact performance. The executive controller units are responsible for coordinating tasks and exchanging data across the network, while the communications modules facilitate secure and optimized data transmission. The intervening network components, which include the communications modules of each executive controller unit, ensure that data is routed correctly and efficiently between the units. This configuration enhances system robustness by providing redundant communication paths and improving fault tolerance. The system may also include mechanisms for monitoring network performance and dynamically adjusting communication parameters to maintain optimal operation under varying network conditions. By integrating the communications modules of each executive controller unit into the network infrastructure, the system ensures seamless and resilient data exchange, supporting real-time control and coordination in distributed environments.
27. The system of claim 23, wherein the vehicle controller is configured to autonomously operate the associated agricultural vehicle with each of direct and indirect communications.
This invention relates to autonomous agricultural vehicle systems designed to improve operational efficiency and communication in farming environments. The system addresses the challenge of coordinating multiple agricultural vehicles in dynamic field conditions, where reliable communication is essential for synchronized tasks such as planting, harvesting, or soil management. The system includes a vehicle controller that autonomously operates an agricultural vehicle using both direct and indirect communication methods. Direct communication involves real-time data exchange between vehicles or with a central control unit, while indirect communication relies on pre-programmed instructions or stored data to guide operations when direct links are unavailable. The vehicle controller dynamically selects the appropriate communication mode based on environmental factors, such as signal interference or vehicle proximity, ensuring continuous and adaptive operation. This dual-communication approach enhances reliability in areas with limited connectivity, such as remote fields, while maintaining precision in task execution. The system may also integrate with other agricultural machinery or sensors to optimize workflows, such as adjusting vehicle paths to avoid obstacles or overlapping work areas. By combining autonomous control with flexible communication strategies, the invention improves productivity and reduces the need for manual intervention in large-scale farming operations.
28. The system of claim 23, wherein the vehicle controller is configured to arrest autonomous operation of the associated agricultural vehicle if another communications module of another executive controller of the plurality of executive controller units previously included in the first or second communications networks is unavailable on the first and second communications networks.
This invention relates to a system for managing autonomous agricultural vehicles, addressing the need for reliable communication and coordination among multiple vehicles in a fleet. The system includes a vehicle controller for each autonomous agricultural vehicle, a plurality of executive controller units, and at least two communications networks. The executive controllers oversee the fleet, while the communications networks facilitate data exchange between the vehicle controllers and the executive controllers. The system ensures that if a vehicle controller loses communication with an executive controller, it can switch to an alternative network to maintain connectivity. The vehicle controller is also configured to halt autonomous operation if another executive controller, previously connected to either network, becomes unavailable on both networks. This prevents unsafe or uncoordinated vehicle behavior when critical communication links are disrupted. The system enhances operational safety and reliability by enforcing strict communication requirements before allowing autonomous operation to continue. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale agricultural operations where multiple autonomous vehicles must work in coordination while maintaining robust communication links.
29. The system of claim 23, wherein the communications module is configured to communicate with first and second communications networks including one or more Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, EnOcean, synapse network appliance protocol (SNAP), radio, cellular or satellite based networks.
This invention relates to a communication system designed to facilitate connectivity across multiple diverse network types. The system addresses the challenge of integrating various communication protocols into a unified framework, enabling seamless interaction between devices operating on different network standards. The core system includes a communications module capable of interfacing with at least two distinct networks, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, EnOcean, SNAP, radio, cellular, or satellite-based networks. This module ensures compatibility and interoperability between devices that may otherwise be restricted to their respective network protocols. The system is particularly useful in environments where multiple communication standards coexist, such as smart home setups, industrial automation, or IoT ecosystems. By supporting a wide range of protocols, the system eliminates the need for separate adapters or gateways, simplifying deployment and reducing costs. The communications module dynamically manages connections, ensuring reliable data transmission across heterogeneous networks while maintaining low latency and high efficiency. This approach enhances flexibility, scalability, and robustness in networked applications.
32. The system of claim 30, wherein operation progress includes one or more of machine position, speed, engine settings, or performance of a specified agricultural operation of the at least one agricultural vehicle.
This invention relates to monitoring and managing agricultural operations using a system that tracks the progress of agricultural vehicles. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently overseeing large-scale farming activities by providing real-time data on various operational parameters. The system includes at least one agricultural vehicle equipped with sensors and communication devices to collect and transmit data related to the vehicle's operation. This data encompasses machine position, speed, engine settings, and the performance of specific agricultural tasks such as planting, harvesting, or spraying. The system processes this information to generate insights into the progress of agricultural operations, enabling operators to optimize workflows, reduce inefficiencies, and ensure tasks are completed accurately. By integrating multiple data points, the system allows for comprehensive monitoring of field activities, improving decision-making and resource allocation in agricultural operations. The invention enhances productivity and precision in farming by providing actionable data on vehicle performance and task execution.
33. The system of claim 32, with the specified agricultural operation includes one or more of a tillage operation, planting operation, spraying operation, grain cart operation.
The invention relates to an agricultural system designed to optimize and automate various farming operations. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing multiple agricultural tasks, such as tillage, planting, spraying, and grain cart operations, to improve productivity and reduce manual intervention. The system integrates sensors, actuators, and control mechanisms to monitor and execute these operations autonomously or semi-autonomously. For tillage, the system adjusts plow depth and speed based on soil conditions. In planting, it controls seed placement, depth, and spacing for optimal crop growth. For spraying, the system regulates the application of fertilizers or pesticides based on real-time field data. The grain cart operation involves automated grain collection and transport from harvesters to storage or transport vehicles. The system may also include communication modules to coordinate between different agricultural machines and a central management unit. By automating these operations, the system enhances precision, reduces labor costs, and improves overall farm efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in large-scale farming where multiple operations need to be synchronized for optimal yield and resource utilization.
34. The system of claim 30, wherein the communications module is configured to communicate with one or more executive controller units or mobile devices with multiple communication networks including at least a first communication network and a different second communication network.
This invention relates to a communication system designed to enhance connectivity between executive controller units and mobile devices across multiple networks. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining reliable communication in environments where a single network may be unreliable or unavailable. The system includes a communications module that enables interaction with executive controller units or mobile devices through at least two distinct communication networks, such as a first network and a second, different network. This dual-network capability ensures redundancy and continuity, allowing seamless communication even if one network fails or becomes congested. The system may also include a processing module to manage data and control signals, and a power management module to regulate energy consumption. The communications module dynamically selects the optimal network based on factors like signal strength, latency, or network availability, ensuring efficient and uninterrupted communication. This approach is particularly useful in industrial, automotive, or IoT applications where robust and flexible connectivity is critical. The system improves reliability, reduces downtime, and enhances operational efficiency by leveraging multiple communication pathways.
37. The system of claim 34, wherein the multiple communications networks include one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, EnOcean, synapse network appliance protocol (SNAP), radio, cellular or satellite based networks.
This invention relates to a system for managing communications across multiple heterogeneous networks in an Internet of Things (IoT) environment. The system addresses the challenge of integrating diverse communication protocols and technologies used by different IoT devices, which often operate on incompatible networks. The system enables seamless interoperability by dynamically routing data between devices connected to different networks, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, EnOcean, SNAP, radio, cellular, or satellite-based networks. The system includes a central controller that identifies the communication protocols of connected devices and establishes direct or relayed connections between them, ensuring efficient data transfer regardless of the underlying network technology. The system may also prioritize network selection based on factors like latency, bandwidth, or power consumption to optimize performance. Additionally, the system can handle protocol translation, allowing devices using different standards to communicate without requiring modifications to their native protocols. This approach simplifies IoT deployments by reducing the need for proprietary gateways or bridges, while improving scalability and reliability in mixed-network environments.
38. The system of claim 37, wherein the multiple communications networks include one or more mesh type networks.
A system is disclosed for managing communications across multiple networks, including mesh-type networks, to improve reliability and efficiency in data transmission. Mesh networks are decentralized structures where each node can relay data, enhancing robustness in environments with unstable or intermittent connections. The system integrates these mesh networks with other types of networks, such as cellular, Wi-Fi, or satellite, to provide seamless connectivity. By dynamically selecting the optimal network path based on factors like signal strength, latency, and bandwidth, the system ensures continuous data flow even if one network fails. This is particularly useful in scenarios like disaster recovery, remote sensing, or IoT deployments where traditional infrastructure may be unreliable. The system may also include features like automatic re-routing, load balancing, and encryption to secure data transmission. The integration of mesh networks allows for scalable and resilient communication, reducing dependency on a single network type and improving overall system performance.
39. The system of claim 30, wherein the communications module of the at least one agricultural vehicle is configured to communicate with the one or more executive controller units or mobile devices with one or more mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers, modems associated with one or more of the first or second communication networks.
The system involves an agricultural vehicle equipped with a communications module designed to facilitate data exchange within a farming environment. The primary challenge addressed is the need for reliable and flexible communication between agricultural vehicles, executive controller units, and mobile devices across diverse and often remote farming operations. The communications module enables connectivity through a combination of mesh networks, gateways, switches, repeaters, routers, and modems, which are part of one or more communication networks. Mesh networks allow for decentralized, self-healing connectivity, ensuring robust data transmission even in areas with limited infrastructure. Gateways, switches, and routers manage data flow between different network segments, while repeaters extend signal range. Modems facilitate wired or wireless connections to external networks. This setup ensures seamless communication for tasks such as vehicle coordination, data collection, and remote monitoring, improving operational efficiency and decision-making in agricultural settings. The system supports both local and wide-area communication, adapting to varying environmental and operational conditions.
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July 16, 2020
December 20, 2022
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